As a youth, I had the privilege of playing volleyball on a Junior Olympic team alongside two teammates from the Philippines. Their love for their country was palpable, even as their family relocated to the United States due to their father’s prestigious position as a neurosurgeon. I was always struck by their exceptional English skills and the pride they carried for their heritage. Those experiences left a lasting impression on me and, unknowingly, planted a seed for what would become a key decision for Bravo LT decades later.
Fast forward 30 years, Bravo LT had already established offices in Mexico and Europe, expanding our reach and strengthening our global footprint. As we looked to remain competitive in the software development market, particularly against countries like India, the Philippines emerged as a clear choice for our next international office. This decision wasn’t made lightly; it was the culmination of months of research, collaboration, and determination.

Why the Philippines?
The Philippines offers unique advantages that make it an ideal location for companies like Bravo LT. Here are the key factors that influenced our decision:
Fluency in English: English is an official language of the Philippines, enshrined in the country’s constitution. This linguistic proficiency ensures seamless communication with our US-based clients and enhances collaboration across teams. When we met with De La Salle University—the country’s top-ranked university—we were impressed by the caliber of their students and their ability to engage fluently and professionally in English.
Time Zone Compatibility: While the Philippines operates on a time zone 12 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time, many professionals are accustomed to working the night shift to align with US business hours. This adaptability ensures that our teams can provide real-time support and meet project deadlines efficiently.
Incentives for Growth: The Philippines Board of Investments (BOI) played a significant role in our decision by offering an eight-year reprieve on business taxes. This incentive, combined with the government’s proactive support for foreign investment, underscored the Philippines’ commitment to fostering a competitive and welcoming business environment.
Top-Notch Talent: During our discussions with De La Salle University, we explored their Computer Science program, feeder systems, and career placement initiatives. The insights we gained were invaluable. The Philippines produces highly skilled graduates who are eager to contribute to the tech industry. Partnering with De La Salle allows us to tap into this talent pool and ensure we’re hiring the best and brightest.
Cultural Alignment: The Philippines has a strong affinity for Western culture, which translates into better alignment with our clients’ expectations and work styles. This cultural synergy is crucial for delivering high-quality software development services and maintaining strong client relationships.
Avoiding Tariffs on BRICS Nations: Recent developments have highlighted potential trade disruptions, with threats of significant tariffs on imports from BRICS nations, including India and Brazil. By establishing operations in the Philippines, Bravo LT can mitigate these risks, ensuring stability and cost-effectiveness for our clients. This strategic move allows us to maintain uninterrupted service delivery while avoiding the uncertainties associated with such tariffs.
The Journey to Opening Our Office
Setting up operations in the Philippines was a rigorous process. We engaged in multiple meetings with the BOI, interviewed over ten corporate attorneys, and consulted with top engineering universities. After much deliberation, we selected an attorney who has been an incredible partner in navigating the legal and operational complexities of establishing a business in the Philippines.
Finally, in the summer of 2024, our hard work came to fruition. We officially opened our office in the Philippines, marking a new chapter in Bravo LT’s journey. This office not only strengthens our global presence but also reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional software solutions to our clients.
Looking Ahead
The decision to expand to the Philippines aligns with Bravo LT’s vision of building a global team that combines technical excellence with cultural and linguistic compatibility. Our partnership with De La Salle University ensures that we’re investing in the future of the tech industry while providing opportunities for young, talented professionals.
As I reflect on my journey from playing volleyball with my Filipino teammates to leading Bravo LT’s expansion into their homeland, I’m reminded of the importance of building connections across borders. The Philippines is not just another office location; it’s a testament to our belief in the power of global collaboration and shared purpose.
Written by Edward Nausieda, President at Bravo LT.
Comments